[1] In the later part of the Spanish colonial era in the Philippines, the civic space was referred to as the Plaza de María Cristina, in honor of Queen Maria Christina of the Two Sicilies.

[1] The Plaza Independencia grounds features a historic triangular fortification known as the Fort San Pedro.

It also has a monument which was built in honor of Spanish navigator Miguel López de Legazpi, who also became the first Governor-General of the Philippines, and a fountain.

It also has other monuments dedicated to other figures such as chronicler Antonio Pigafetta, President Ramon Magsaysay and to war veterans.

An underground tunnel, built from 2009 to 2011, connects mainland Cebu City to the South Road Properties.